Canada student visa requirements and how to apply are here to guide you in your study pursuit in Canada. Note that, to study in Canada as an international student, you must have a student study permit. Canada continues to attract a steady volume of students from across the world yearly.
Canadian universities attract students from around the world to study a variety of courses. Canada’s institutions boast world-class infrastructures, cutting-edge curriculums, and sprawling campuses.
Getting into Top Universities in Canada requires excellent academic performance, but the permission to study is validated through a Study Permit. Therefore, you need a study permit to study at a university, a college, or any other educational institution in Canada. This permit is issued to students upon arrival in Canada.
This article covers everything from Canada student visa requirements to documents needed to obtain a Study Permit.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF STUDYING IN CANADA?
Why study in Canada is one of the questions most people ask. However, to answer this question, here are the benefits of studying in Canada.
Canada is one of the best places for higher education, attracting thousands of students from all over the world each year. Universities in Canada provide a world-class education that is recognized globally, and research is regarded as one of the most important aspects of any graduate program.
Universities provide support to students who develop the best research ideas, and scholarships are awarded based on the research work. Other reasons to study in Canada include:
- Innovative and Abundant Research Opportunities
- Affordable Education
- Immigration Possibilities
- Healthy and Safe Communities
- Exciting Campus Lifestyle
- Work and internship opportunities for international students while they study.
The following are some other pertinent reasons to choose Canada for your study program:
- A lot of research opportunities: Universities in this area offer research assistance to students who have good research ideas.
- Possibility of immigration following completion of the course: If a candidate chooses to study in Canada, he will receive points in three categories: language, education, and work. If they are of a certain age, they will receive bonus points. A Canadian education can provide valuable points for various immigration streams such as Express Entry or the PNP.
- A vibrant campus environment
- Excellent internship opportunities
- International students can work while studying in Canada, thanks to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows foreign students to gain work experience in Canada after completing their course of study at a designated learning institute (DLI). The PGWP is valid for three years, depending on the length of the study program.
What exactly is a Study Permit?
A study permit is a document issued by Canadian immigration authorities that allows international students to study in Canada. International students are not permitted to study in Canada unless they have a valid study permit. Aside from that, students who obtain a study permit may enroll in Designated Learning Institutions.
How To Get a Study Permit – Canada Student Visa Requirements
You must bring the Letter of Introduction, as well as all other required documents, to Canada. You would meet with an Immigration Officer at the airport. Present your passport and the Letter of Introduction to the border control officer, who will validate the documents and, if deemed adequate, will issue you your Study Permit.
Canadian Student Visa Eligibility Criteria
If you meet the following Canada Student Visa Requirements, you can apply for a Canada Study visa:
- A designated learning institute has accepted you (DLI).
- You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your tuition and living expenses.
- You must demonstrate that you have a clean record and no criminal history. To demonstrate this, the aspirants must present a police verification certificate.
- You must undergo a health examination and obtain a medical certificate certifying that you are in good health.
Also, during the visa interview, you must persuade the visa officer that you will leave Canada once your studies are completed.
Canada Student Visa Requirements
Generally, you will need the following for your CANADA Student Visa application:
- Valid Passport
- Employer references-2
- Academic references-2
- Attested copies of 10th, 12th, and Degree certificates
- SOP-Statement of Purpose
- A Certificate of extracurricular achievements
- An acceptance letter from your educational institution
- Evidence of payment
- Proof of financial funds
- Study Permit and visa
- Passport size photographs
- English Proficiency
- Your University will make you aware of additional requirements if any prior to your application
Documents Required for Canadian Study Visa
After receiving your college acceptance letter, you should apply for a student visa. Meanwhile, the visa process should begin around June if you are aiming for the September intake.
Here is the list of documents you need to apply for a Canada student visa.
1. Letter/proof of Acceptance by a Designated Learning Institution
You must have an acceptance letter from the university/institute you intend to attend. A Designated Learning Institute is a University recognized by the Immigration Department. More so, if you are applying for Quebec, you will also need a CAQ, which will be duly notified.
2. Valid Passport
To apply for a Study Permit, you must have a valid passport. It is crucial that you have a passport that is valid for the duration of your intended stay in Canada. For example, if you plan to travel to Canada for a two-year course in September 2022, your passport must be valid until at least September 2024.
3. Proof of Sufficient Funds
You would be required to show proof of funds when applying for your Study Permit. According to current standards, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover both our tuition and living expenses. According to Canadian Immigration, a student would need at least CAD 10,000 for each year of stay.
Aside from the above two requirements, the student must also demonstrate that he or she has sufficient funds for a return trip.
4. Passport Photographs
If you choose to apply offline, you will need two passport-sized photographs that meet the requirements. For an online application, you must obtain a digital copy of the photograph that is no larger than 4MB. Other requirements include a standard neutral facial expression, a plain background, and no headgear (unless for religious purposes).
Note that:
- The passport should be recent (not older than 6 months)
- The size of the image should be at least 35 mm x 45 mm
5. English Language Proficiency Exam Score
Though not required at the time of application, we strongly advise you to take the English Language Proficiency Test and obtain your English Language Proficiency Score before beginning your Visa Application Process. To confirm your admission to the Canadian University, you would have had to submit your English language proficiency score. TOEFL, IELTS, and other tests are all acceptable.
6. Immigration Medical Examination
International students are required by Canadian Immigration to undergo a mandatory Immigration Medical Examination performed by empanelled doctors. Students must make an appointment with one of the listed doctors and visit them for a medical examination, preferably a week before they begin their Visa application.
7. Statement of Purpose
When applying for a Canadian Study Permit, you must submit an essay explaining why you are visiting Canada and why you have chosen this particular institution.
8. Credit Card
If you apply online, you will need a credit card to pay the application fee. The application fee for a visa to Canada is CAD 160. Please keep in mind that the system does not accept debit cards. Also, it must not be your credit card. You may also use your parents’ cards if you have explicit permission to do so.
Frequently Asked Questions About Canada Student Visa Requirements
What is a Canada student visa?
A Canada student visa, also known as a study permit, is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada.
How do I apply for a Canada student visa?
To apply for a Canada student visa, you need to follow these steps:
- Find a designated learning institution (DLI) and get accepted.
- Gather the required documents, which may include proof of acceptance, financial support, and a valid passport.
- Complete the online application form and pay the application fee.
- Submit your application and wait for a decision.
What are the eligibility requirements for a Canada student visa?
To be eligible for a Canada student visa, you must:
- Have been accepted by a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
- Be able to prove that you have enough money to pay for your tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- Have a clean criminal record and be in good health.
How much does a Canada student visa cost?
The application fee for a Canada student visa is CAD 150. You may also have to pay additional fees for biometrics, which can cost up to CAD 85.
How long does it take to process a Canada student visa?
The processing time for a Canada student visa varies depending on the country and the time of year. In general, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
Can I work while studying in Canada on a student visa?
Yes, you can work in Canada while studying on a student visa. However, you must have a valid study permit and meet certain eligibility requirements. You may also need to apply for a work permit.
Can I stay in Canada after I graduate?
Yes, you may be eligible to stay in Canada after you graduate under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). The length of the work permit depends on the length of your study program.
Can I apply for permanent residency in Canada after I graduate?
Yes, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency in Canada under various immigration programs, such as the Express Entry system or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
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